LETTER
FROM ABRAHAM LINCOLN TO HIS SON’S TEACHER
He will have to learn, I know, that all men are not
just, all men are true. But for every scoundrel there is a hero; that for every
selfish politician, there is a dedicated leader.
Teach him that for every enemy there is a friend.
Teach him that a dollar earned is far more value
than five dollars found.
Teach him to learn to lose and also to enjoy
winning.
Steer him away from envy, if you can.
Teach him the secret of quiet laughter.
Teacher him the wonder of books; but also give quiet
time to ponder the eternal mystery of birds in the sky, bees in the sun, and
flowers on a green hillside.
In school, teach him it is far more honorable to
fail than to cheat.
Teach him to have faith in his own ideas, even if
everyone tells him they were wrong.
Teach him to be gentle with gentle people, and
though with though people.
Try to give him the strength no to follow the crowd
when everyone is getting to the band wagon.
Teach him to listen to all men, but teach him also
to filter all and take on a screen of truth and take only the good that comes
through.
Teach him to laugh when he is sad.
Teach him there is no shame in tears.
Teach him to close his ears to howling mob; and to
stand and fifth if he thinks he’s right.
Teach him gently, but do not cuddle him, because
only they test of fire makes fine steel.
Let him have the courage to be impatient, let have
the patience to be brave.
Teach him always to have sublime faith in his creator
and faith in himself too, because then will always have faith in mankind.
This is a big order, but please see what you can do.
He is such a fine little fellow, my son:
Abraham
Lincoln
